Maharashtra Government Formation: Devendra Fadnavis Heads to Delhi for Key Talks Amid Rising Speculations

The process of Maharashtra government formation has gained significant momentum, with major developments unfolding after a high-level meeting between key political leaders in Delhi. Former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is widely seen as the frontrunner for the top post, left for the national capital to hold discussions with Union Minister Amit Shah and other stakeholders, including Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar.

Key Developments in Maharashtra Govt Formation

• Devendra Fadnavis Expected to Be Sworn in as New CM: With Eknath Shinde stepping aside, it is widely anticipated that Fadnavis will take oath as Maharashtra’s new Chief Minister. The decision follows extensive deliberations within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies, including the Shiv Sena and the NCP.
• Two Deputy CMs Likely in the New Cabinet: According to Ajit Pawar, the newly formed government could be operational as early as November 30 or December 1. The coalition government is expected to feature two deputy chief ministers, continuing the power-sharing arrangement that has become a hallmark of the state’s political landscape.
• Shinde’s Support for Government Formation: Eknath Shinde, the Shiv Sena leader who resigned as CM earlier this week, has reportedly given his backing to the government formation process. He emphasized that the Shiv Sena would not stand in the way of forming a new government in Maharashtra. Shinde also mentioned that the final decision on who becomes CM lies with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with all alliance leaders prepared to accept his choice.
• Fadnavis Confirms No Disputes over Leadership: Devendra Fadnavis echoed Shinde’s sentiments, confirming that there is no dispute over the Chief Minister’s position. Fadnavis reiterated that the decision would be made collectively, in line with what was promised prior to the elections. “We have always taken decisions together,” he said, assuring that the leadership would be decided after consultations with all stakeholders.

Speculations About the Next CM

• Shiv Sena Leaders Support Shinde, But BJP Eyes Top Position: While several leaders within Shiv Sena are advocating for Eknath Shinde to retain the Chief Minister’s post, many in the BJP are pushing for Fadnavis to lead the state government, given the party’s stronger position in the assembly. As the party with the most seats, the BJP is seen as playing a decisive role in the formation of the next government.
• Congress and Opposition Criticism: Meanwhile, Congress has been vocal in its criticism of the delay in announcing the new CM. State Congress president Nana Patole has claimed that Eknath Shinde is under pressure to relinquish the CM post. Patole argued that the delay is due to the Shiv Sena’s inability to come to terms with BJP leadership in the state, highlighting the ongoing tensions within the alliance.

Upcoming Key Meetings

The next crucial meeting regarding the Maharashtra government formation will take place later today, where Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, Ajit Pawar, and Union Minister Amit Shah are expected to finalize discussions. The outcome of this meeting is expected to pave the way for a new government to take charge, with a possible announcement of the Chief Minister and his cabinet in the coming days.

The Election Context

The recent Maharashtra assembly elections concluded on November 23, with the counting of votes for the 288 seats. Voter turnout was recorded at 66.05%, reflecting the high stakes of the election. As the dust settles, the focus now shifts to the formation of a stable government in the state that has witnessed a dramatic political shift in recent years.

As political leaders finalize their positions, the question remains—who will take the reins of Maharashtra in the aftermath of this power struggle? Stay tuned for further updates on the Maharashtra government formation saga.